Recognising their dedication off the pitch to inspire and uplift those around them, Amber Tysiak and Wes Foderingham have been named West Ham United’s PFA Community Champions for 2024/25.
This annual award sees Premier League, EFL and Barclays Women’s Super League clubs nominate players who have best represented their community organisations' values throughout the season, helping shine a light on the vital work PFA members do to support community initiatives.
Tysiak also won the Players’ Project award for her ongoing support of the West Ham United Foundation throughout the 2024/25 season. Since joining the Club, the Belgium international has been a constant presence at grassroots football sessions, education programmes and inclusion campaigns aimed at opening doors for young people, particularly girls in sport.
The 25-year-old also attended the Foundation’s inaugural Gala Dinner and has used her platform to champion equality, promote diversity and support youth development across the region, quickly becoming a role model for many in the community.
“I feel proud to be part of a Club that places so much importance on giving back,” said Tysiak.
“The work that the West Ham United Foundation does across the local community is truly inspiring - from supporting young people and promoting healthy lifestyles to creating inclusive opportunities for everyone.
“Whether it’s encouraging girls to dream big or simply connecting with people through football, it all makes a difference. We wear the badge for more than just what we do on the pitch, and it means a lot to be recognised for doing that.”
From matchday fan engagement to her attendance at the West Ham United Foundation’s girls programmes, Tysiak’s passion and energy have helped foster meaningful connections between the Club and its supporters.
Similarly, Foderingham has shown a strong personal commitment to West Ham United Foundation’s outreach work this season. Whether at local schools, community events or supporting health and wellbeing initiatives, the goalkeeper has gone above and beyond to engage with fans and residents of all ages and backgrounds.
Foderingham said: “I’m really proud to win the PFA Community Champion award and to be recognised for my work within the local community.
“Since I joined the Club last summer, it’s been clear to see the massive impact that the Club has within east London and Essex. I’ve had the pleasure of attending many different sessions with our West Ham United Foundation throughout the season, and a clear highlight was visiting the incredible people at Saint Francis Hospice around Christmas time.
“Football has the power to change lives, and I feel fortunate to be in the position that I am to try to help others through these community activities.”
From his willingness to share his experiences to his enthusiastic presence at events across the local area, Foderingham has helped inspire confidence and positivity throughout the community.
“The PFA has once again been immensely proud of the outstanding efforts of players this season and we feel they should be recognised for their support and involvement in the local community,” said Maheta Molango, CEO of the Professional Footballers’ Association.
“The award will hopefully raise awareness of the importance many of our members attach to their roles off the pitch and highlight their continued commitment to support those most in need along with engaging in areas where they have a personal interest.
“We would like to offer our congratulations to Amber and Wes as this season’s recipients of the 2024/25 PFA Community Champion award.”
The PFA Community Champion award not only celebrates what players achieve on the pitch, but also recognises those who choose to make a difference off it by reaching out, supporting others and helping to build a stronger, more inclusive community for all.